Dear Parents and Carers,

As a College staff, we pride ourselves on providing a liberating education that nurtures the whole person. A common question I receive, particularly from prospective parents, is: what does a liberating education look like? According to the EREA Learning Statement, liberating practice involves:

“Explicitly co-creating the learning conditions, dispositions and relationships that enable deep listening, confidence, agency and freedom.”

So far during this school year, ERC students have positively engaged in diverse learning activities that promote personal and academic growth. From core curriculum subjects and community service learning (CSL) initiatives to debating, public speaking, sporting and outdoor education, we strive to personalise each student’s learning journey whilst instilling in them the importance of having respect for others.

I witnessed an example of such a respectful exchange earlier in the week after the Year 9 Mass, where students engaged in a short and open Q&A session with Fr. Duane, reinforcing our commitment to active student voice. Other formal opportunities for student voice include a regular goal-setting process, student wellbeing and learning ‘pulse’ surveys, and the My Strengths feedback sessions, which help students develop self-confidence and emotional reflection.

As we prepare to recognise National Reconciliation Week, ERC continues to commit to a deep listening of all voices, including those of our First Nation students and families. Our collective mission is to ensure that every student feels empowered and valued and is prepared to contribute positively to our society both now and into the future.

Thank you for your ongoing support in making ERC a place of learning, respect, and liberation.

***

In Week 3 of this term students undertook our annual Wellbeing Survey, which plays an important role in Student voice, the importance of which was highlighted by Dr Gough. Data collected from this important avenue for student voice is used to further develop and enhance our Pastoral care programs. Student voice involves students actively participating in their schools, contributing to decision making processes and collectively influencing outcomes by putting forward their views, concerns and ideas.

Dr Russ Quaglia, is best known for his work on student voice recognising the correlation between high levels of student engagement and fostering a positive school climate. He asserts that when students have a voice they are:

• 5 times more likely to experience engagement in school,
• 5 times more likely to experience purpose at school and
• 3 times more likely to experience self worth

These three things together contribute to increased academic motivation.

As a College we are committed to ensuring that the student voice is an active contributor to the life of the College whether it be through surveys, evaluations, podcasts, SRC meetings, student leadership initiatives, choice in the classroom or through the provision of structures where students feel safe to speak up for both themselves and others. Listening and responding to our students with care and respect is a crucial part of the privileged partnership we share between home and school. We have lots to learn from our students, who are our future leaders. We are proud that the student voice is so active in our school.

Mrs Hughes
Acting College Deputy Principal

This week Year 9 had the opportunity to join with Fr Duane to celebrate Mass. It was an opportunity for the students to reflect on how they are growing and transforming through all the experiences they have in life, considering their Pastoral Theme to ‘Be Transformed’ based on the story of the Transfiguration.

Fr Duane gave students the opportunity to ask questions about faith and life after mass and it helped us all to consider that growing in faith is something that we all have to work on. Thank you to the Liturgy SRC representative Bowen Saunders who organised the ministers for the mass and to Dr Gough for joining us.

Mrs Hurley
Director of Identity

The Year 11 Pastoral theme is based on the gospel call to honour one another. It is based on St Paul’s letter to the Romans when he says “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” (Romans 12:10) Sometimes, as with all aspects of life, it is easier to read or write the words than to actually live them out in a practical sense. This week, Year 11 students had the opportunity to learn about what it means to be a leader in all aspects of life and that it is always based on the relationships you have with others, as well as how you care for those most marginalised. We often bump along through life, thinking about the HSC, sport, getting a job or close personal relationships, but we hardly ever have time to think about how we contribute to making the world a better place for all others.

At Edmund Rice College, this is the ideal that is the foundation of our touchstones. In a year when we are focussed on what it means to be an inclusive community, our presenter, Michael Fitzpatrick, challenged us on just that point. Perhaps we can all think about how we are growing to be the best version of ourselves and how to ensure that we are nurturing good relationships with those around us, caring for those who are in need of our love and support. The day involved singing, dancing and conversation that challenged us to let others see us as we are. Thank you to Mr Forshaw, Mr Breeze and the Pastoral Care team for their leadership and accompanying the students in this experience as the first step of the Senior Retreat program. Here are some of the comments from students about the day:

• Seeing everyone in such a vulnerable and emotional state, really put me in a state of reflection. (Edward Guest)
• It was a great opportunity to connect with our year group. (Jonah O’Dea)
• I found the day to be very interesting. I feel that I was pushed outside my comfort zone, and I learnt a lot about leadership. I discovered a lot of things about my classmates I never knew, and I believe the cohort as a whole was a lot more unified that day. (Angelo Zachristos)
• I learned a lot from it; it pushed me way out of my comfort zone and I wasn’t expecting it to be this good. To be honest I wasn’t really looking forward to the day but now I feel like a completely different person. (William Soster)
• I think the day was really good and the things we learnt will help our cohort become closer and better to each other. (Alex Ladmore)
• It was a day for the whole cohort to grow and reflect on the now 5th year of being together, of everything that has happened and it allowed people to see who people really are. (Samuel Di Leva)
• It was a day that we could reflect and come out of our comfort zones. It was a day where we could learn about ourselves and about others in our year group (Willem Robbard).
• It was a very good experience and enriched the cohort’s cohesiveness. (Albert Milan)
• It was an amazing experience. (Joash Thayyil)
• It was an impactful and insightful day (Toby Morrison)
• It was evident from thinking back on the day’s leadership-focused activities that real leaders inspire people via their actions and unshakable dedication to their goal, not just through words. (Heath Marsh)
• The day gave us, as a cohort, a chance to reflect on our actions allowing us to acknowledge right and wrong. The chance to apologise and to build leadership for individuals. (Yousef Chaaban)
• The Reflection Day, helped us to see the year groups’ behaviour before the day and after. During the Reflection Day I noticed a big change in respect and leadership with the Year group as I noticed people start to know others that aren’t in their group. (Archie Oyston)
• The year 11 reflection day was an extremely valuable experience. The day allowed the Year group to unite as one, putting aside any differences that may have been present. Leadership and stepping outside your comfort zones were the main ideas of the day, with many activities allowing individuals to express how they felt, and show great levels of compassion towards each other. Altogether, I strongly felt the day brought the year group together and will change the everyday behaviours of many in school grounds and out. (Jayden Washbourne)
• This day was a way for lots of boys in our year to reflect on the actions and way they have been going through school, giving us a chance to repent for any negative actions and apologise to those who we may have harmed. (Dylan Lester)

Mrs Hurley
Director of Identity

Year 12 Trial Higher School Certificate Examinations

Year 12 Trial Higher School Certificate Examinations are scheduled to commence in Week 3 of Term 3. To enable all Year 12 students to plan and organise their study and revision for these assessment tasks, the Trial Higher School Certificate Examinations Timetable was published to Year 12 students this week. Students have been reminded to highlight their examinations so that they know when these are scheduled.

Year 10 into 11 2025 Subject Selections

On Monday 20 May, Year 10 students and Parents/Carers were emailed the Year 11 2025 Information Booklet. This contains the timeline for Year 10 students to select their pattern of study for Years 11 and 12. To support students to make course choices that will best prepare them for post secondary education opportunities, the Year 10 cohort will receive valuable course specific information from Heads of Department in Subject Information Presentations for Students to be held during the school day on Monday 27 May and Tuesday 28 May.

The Year 11 2025 Information Evening for Parents/Carers and Students will be held in the Edmund Rice Centre next Wednesday, 29 May at 6:00pm. Additionally, there will also be an opportunity from 5.15-6.00pm for students and parents to seek course specific information from relevant Heads of Department. During this time, Mr Garry Cajar will also be able to provide advice and guidance regarding the best patterns of study for particular career paths.

Year 7-10 Semester 1 Examinations

Years 7-10 students have begun to receive notifications for the upcoming Year 7-10 Semester 1 Examinations, which will be held in Weeks 6, 7 and 8 of this term. Students in these years need to be preparing for these assessment tasks by summarising and revising their classwork, and doing practice questions to consolidate their learning during this semester.

A reminder that all Edmund Rice College families have access to the Study Samurai Library. The link below contains a list of actionable strategies to leverage neuroplasticity to optimise learning potential.

HARNESSING NEUROPLASTICITY

Mrs Bell
Director of Studies

Over the past fortnight, our College Stage Band has been on a musical journey, bringing their vibrant tunes to the eager ears of primary school students across the Illawarra. On Monday, the 13 May, the band kicked off their tour with lively performances at St Patrick’s Port Kembla and St Pius X Unanderra. The energy was palpable as students tapped their feet and swayed to the rhythm of the music.

But the fun didn’t stop there! On Monday, 20 May, our talented musicians continued their mission entertaining the primary school audiences. This time, they graced the halls of St Brigid’s Gwynneville and Nazareth Shellharbour, captivating audiences with their impressive skills and infectious enthusiasm. For the young students, it was a chance to experience the magic of live music up close and personal and interact through singing and dancing.

A big round of applause is in order for our talented College Stage Band for their dedication and commitment to sharing their musical talents with the wider community. We look forward to more toe-tapping performances and memorable moments in the future!

Please see the attached photos from these two events.

Mr. Bonaccorso & Mr. Haybittle

On Thursday 16 May, the College welcomed six Vietnam Veterans to a Q and A with Year 10 Class G. The panel consisted of five veterans, who held different roles in the war, and the wife of a late American Veteran. They include: Adele Tanner (widow), Ron Woods, Michael Paris, Rick Bensley, Rob Cohen and Bill Dobson. Students asked insightful questions and gained invaluable knowledge from the Veterans who were open about their wartime experiences. The intergenerational conversation was recorded to be added to the Edmund Rice archives, ensuring that the stories of brave soldiers will not be lost. All students shared the sentiment that the Q and A was revealing and valuable, causing reflection on the reality of war and our fortune in Australia. It provided a depth of understanding to the conflict untainted by politics and media. Adele, the widow of an American Vietnam Veteran, discussed her husband’s experience with PTSD from Vietnam. Bill, a conscript to the national service, talked about his family involvement in war and how this instructed his responsibility to support the war effort. These recounts will never be forgotten as part of the Edmund Rice Archives. The College would like to thank the veterans and Mrs Lothian for their effort in preparing the experience for the students.

Harrison MacDonald and Koen Minett (Year 10)

House Public Speaking

In its second year the House Public Speaking competition has become an exciting part of Founder’s Week. Students from years 7 to 10 presented thought-provoking speeches on a diverse range of topics in front of an audience of their peers. All students demonstrated outstanding skills in rhetoric, speaking with confidence and authority. Congratulations to the following students who were awarded first place in their respective year groups:

Year 7: Alexander Torta
Year 8: Malachy Hurley
Year 9: Isaac Mitrevski
Year 10: Nicholas Aivaliotis

The winning House will be announced at assembly on Tuesday

Ms Shumack
Enrichment Coordinator

Rostrum Success

Isaac Mitrevski of Year 9 recently competed in the regional finals of the Rostrum Voice of Youth. In a highly competitive field he placed Runner Up. Isaac was required to present both an impromptu and a prepared speech which he performed without notes. Congratulations Isaac on this amazing achievement.

Ms Shumack
Enrichment Coordinator

The Art of Public Speaking with Michael Da Silva and Isaac Mitrevski

The Rice Bowl team is thrilled to announce their third episode – The Art of Public Speaking. This interesting episode delves into various aspects of Public Speaking, shedding light on the experiences and challenges in this interesting field.

In this new episode, we are privileged to feature two outstanding students: Year 12’s Michael Da Silva and Year 9’s Isaac Mitrevski. Both of these young gentlemen are deeply involved in the art of Public Speaking, and they graciously share their insights and experiences with us. Ms Shumack also joins the show to share some fascinating information about the College Public Speaking program.
Throughout the conversation, Michael and Isaac discuss everything from initial nerves to moments of triumph. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on the benefits of honing this crucial skill, both in academic and personal spheres. Whether you’re a seasoned debater or just starting to explore the world of public speaking, Michael and Isaac’s anecdotes and experiences are sure to resonate and inspire.

This episode, and others, can be listened to on Spotify via the this link:

Enjoy listening and remember to like, share and subscribe !

Mr Bonaccorso

Wellbeing Survey 2024

Last Tuesday, students undertook the whole school’s Annual Wellbeing Survey. The survey consisted of six key areas of an individual’s well-being: physical, mental, emotional, social, spiritual and use of technology and social media. Young people need to have a voice concerning their well-being, particularly as this data plays a pivotal role in shaping the future directions of our Pastoral Program. After unpacking the data, it was pleasing to see that students at Edmund Rice College focus on their well-being, the relationships that they share with others, their sense of trust in their friends and where they can turn to for support.

At this time, I wanted to share with you some data from the survey so that we all can continue to support our young men in their growth and education. I will also include some links below that may provide additional information/strategies for our College Community as we seek to continue to develop fine young men in the Edmund Rice tradition.

Over the next few weeks, I will focus on these key areas commencing this week with students’ Physical and Mental Well-being.

Physical activity is important in many areas of a young person’s development. The physical, mental, social and emotional development that is associated with physical activity allows for positive physical health in young people as well as improving brain health and learning. For more information on the benefits of physical activity in adolescents, please visit this link here.

Young people need to be aware of the support structures in their immediate community. Our survey revealed that almost 97% of students are aware of the various Pastoral Support structures that exist at the College and how they can access them when needed. Breaking down the barriers associated with seeking support is vital, which is why Reach Out is promoting action to support young people in finding their voice and becoming effective help-seekers. Please access this link for more information.

Additionally, this link here, from Reach Out, provides ways for young people to obtain help for their mental health. It’s common to need help, but it’s important to seek it.

The ability of our young men to make informed decisions and stand up to peer pressure is a key part of our College Pastoral Care Program. Throughout the year, we provide a variety of guest speakers, activities and discussions that seek to promote a positive mindset in our students and promote good decision-making in their day-to-day lives.

Our young men must understand this concept. For more information on peer pressure and how to support your son(s), please visit these links from Mentally Health Schools and Kids Health.

Teaching responsibility to young adults is an important message. As young men understand the concept of personal responsibility, they learn to understand empowerment and can therefore take charge of their own lives and achieve great things. As a College, we aim to provide a Liberating Education that can be nurtured and supported so that our students contribute to a brighter future for all. This Raising Responsible Kids link provides more information on how to further instil these important values in our young me.

Our College promotes the power of communication as a means to assist the learning of our students. I encourage you to talk to your son(s) about their well-being and explore the various ways of establishing and building upon the foundations of positive mental health and well-being. Finally, here is a link from UNICEF that focuses on four key areas for supporting positive mental health in teenagers.

Upcoming Pastoral Care and Well-being events:

• Tuesday 28 May: Year 11 Op Shop Ball
• Thursday 30 May: Year 10 My Strengths Program & Year 8 Social Day & Disco

Mr Bates
Acting Director of Pastoral Care & Wellbeing

At the start of this term several boys in Year 7 successfully achieved Commendation Level, by receiving over 10 merits during the term. This accomplishment is a testament to each student’s dedication, hard work, and commitment to their studies.

Earning Commendation Level reflects both academic excellence, a positive attitude towards learning and a strong work ethic. It is a wonderful achievement that demonstrates each child’s ability to consistently strive for excellence in all aspects of their education.

With well over 1000 merits being awarded across Year 7 so far this year, we are sure to see more students achieve this award.

Congratulations to the well deserved recipients: Aston Di Pietro, Callum Lloyd, Marcus Mitrovski, Raschilla Salvatore, Lewis Green, Jake Schulze, Luca Astone, Callum Hill, James Hillier, Hunter Barrett, Jayden Cheema, Peyton Gelfius, Rylan Griffiths, Angus Jones, Charlie Kerr, Sebastian Rodwell, Eli Shepherd, Jacob Spencer, Ryan Yeo, Daniel Carolan, Bentley Faucett, Jack Baldassari and Nikolas Todorov.

Mr Marsh and Mrs Field
Pastoral Care Coordinators

It is with great pleasure that this week we acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students who have earned Commendation Awards this year.

The College Commendation Award is awarded to those students who have received 10 merit awards, and who have shown consistent excellence in various areas that embody our College touchstones as well as academic success across a range of subjects. These students have set a high standard for themselves and their peers, and their efforts have not gone unnoticed.

Congratulations to the following Year 8 students:

Jacob Austin, Cruz Coleiro, Jackson Hill, Noah Smith, Baxter Mallon, Rocco Favretti, Noah Kanisek, Lawson Long, Christian Saveski, James Schubert, Jaxson Vasiliou, Otto Zeidler, Samuel Arriaza, Hayden Boehm, Ari Bronska-Milic, Heath Hanson, Taj Langley, William Crampton, Liam Player, Cale Riegler, Markian Riznyk, Ryan Davison, Levi Love, Drew Nugent, Aiden Masi, Austin McLeod, Alexander Bradshaw-Wett, Harrison Clarke

Mr Panozzo and Mr Crapis
Pastoral Care Coordinators

Kerryn McCann Athletics Track, Wednesday 15 May 2024

Despite the challenges posed by wet weather and the closure of the infield, the ERC Athletics Carnival at the Kerryn McCann Athletics Track on Wednesday, 15 May, was a resounding success. The event brought together 250 athletes who demonstrated remarkable effort and camaraderie, with the Year 12 students taking the lead and setting a fantastic example for their peers.

Modified Events:
Due to the inclement weather, the carnival had to be modified, focusing on track events and the long jump and high jump competitions. This adjustment didn’t dampen the spirits of our students, who showed great resilience and adaptability.

Events:
The track events were a highlight of the day, with students competing in various sprints and middle-distance races. The enthusiasm and competitive spirit were first class, as athletes pushed themselves to their limits, cheered on by their classmates and teachers.

In the field events, the long jump and high jump saw some outstanding displays of athleticism. Students leapt to impressive heights and distances. The high jump competition, in particular, drew large crowds as athletes attempted to clear increasingly challenging heights, spurred on by the supportive cheers from their peers.

Records:
Notable performances were seen across all year levels, with the following records set during the day (*records dating back to 2017).

• Chase Grant – Opens 200m, Opens 400m
• Darcy Stepanovski – 13s 800m, 13s 1500m
• Milton Stepanovski – 15s 800m
• Nixon Blake – 12s 1500m
• Patrick Smith – 15s – 1500m
• William Mason – 16s 1500m
• Archie Davidson – 12s High Jump
• Nicholas Aivaliotis – 16s Long Jump

Looking Ahead:
While the throwing events had to be postponed due to the closure of the infield, plans are already in place to hold these events at the College at a later date.

Conclusion:
The carnival would not have been a success without the support of the ERC staff who ran the events during the day, and the staff that stayed at the College to supervise and teach their classes.

Students are to stay tuned for updates on the rescheduled throwing events, with information being released in the coming weeks.

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

The Under 14 Edmund Rice College futsal team achieved a remarkable victory in the regional championships on Thursday, 9 May. They dominated the group stages, scoring 20 goals while only conceding 2. Their resilience was truly tested in the quarter-finals against Nowra Christian School, where they found themselves trailing 4-0 within 5 minutes. However, they staged a spectacular comeback, eventually winning 5-4 in extra time.

The team then showcased their peak performance in the semi-final and final matches, securing convincing victories of 8-0 and 7-0 respectively. Their unbeaten run and outstanding performance throughout the tournament not only earned them the championship title but also demonstrated their exceptional teamwork, skill, and determination. The U14 ERC Futsal team will now take on the state finals, trying to defend their title in early September.

Congratulations to all involved.

Team: Rocco Favretti, Xavier Godbee, Fabian Gaudiosi, Aiden Rayner, Stefan Anagnostopoulos, Cash Sanders, Darius Hamond, Lewis Andrews

Coach: Mr Crapis

South Coast Regional Futsal Championships

On Thursday 9 May, the Under 15’s and 16s Edmund Rice Futsal squads travelled to Shoalhaven Indoor Sports Centre to compete in the Regional Futsal Championships. Having such a strong age bracket ERC were lucky enough to enter both a 15s and 16s team for this event.

From the opening whistle, it was evident that both teams were prepared to leave it all on the court. Throughout the day, they showcased exceptional talent and teamwork, dazzling spectators and opponents. As the tournament progressed, Edmund Rice’s teams blazed through the competition, displaying remarkable skill and sportsmanship.

The pinnacle of the day was the Grand Final where Edmund Rice’s 15’s and 16’s teams faced off against each other. After a hard-fought battle where everyone left everything on the court, the match concluded in a thrilling climax – a penalty shootout. Thanks to captain and goalkeeper Justin Delovski the Under 16s came out victorious. It is fantastic to see such a high level of football here at Edmund Rice and each year brings a high level of entertainment and talent no matter on the Futsal court or the outdoor fields.

Well done, Edmund Rice teams! Good luck in the State Championships later in the year.

You have made us proud.

Coach: Mr Belsito

The 17’s Futsal team competed in the opens championship on the 8th May. With 5 wins from 5 games the boys dominated their opponents all over the park. Our defensive structure was safer than Fort Knox where Oliver Morgan, Alexander Heron and Ryan Plumridge were strong in front of gloveman Andre Dzeparovski consistently repelled any danger.

Midfield general Noah Hewett provided the link to golden boot Tzar Harb and fleet footed Michael Marijan as we swept all before us in the group stage.

Semi-final time against a very strong side from Canberra was a close affair. When no score and extra time loomed Tzar pounced on a well constructed move smashing the ball in the top corner and progressing the boys to the final against our own 18’s team.

The final was a great spectacle. End to end action with the 17’s dominating. The 18’s goal withstood some fierce attack. Chad Thomas seemed to have extra arms as the 18’s were under attack. Then tragedy struck when a questionable free kick found our impenetrable defence napping and an unthinkable 1:0 defeat. Fantastic effort boys and both teams now qualify for the next stage.

Back row: Oliver Morgan, Tzar Harb, Willem Robaard (injured), Michael Marijan
Front row: Noah Hewett, Andre Dzeparoski, Alexander Heron, Ryan Plumridge

Coach: Mr Cajar

On Tuesday 7 May, the Year 12 Futsal team travelled to the Shoalhaven Indoor Sports centre to contest the South Coast Regional Futsal Championships.

The team was as follows: Chad Thomas, Alessandro Calmasini, Lennox Roodenrys, Noah Crapis, Yoan Ciugureanu, Bobby Gorgijevski, Mitchell Manevski and Jack Maunsell.

In the group stages, the team had comfortable wins against Bulli High School, Vincentia High School, Figtree High School and a very close game against Lake Ginninderra High School with the team winning all four games. All outfield players contributed with goals and assists and Chad Thomas made some outstanding saves in goal. Another comfortable 6-1 victory followed against Amity College in the quarter-final, setting up an exciting encounter against TIGS in the semi-final with ERC winning the nail biter 5-4. ERC Year 12 played ERC Year 11 in the grand final with a tense game being decided by a goal from a set piece – this left both teams qualifying for the State Championships and demonstrated that the Year 12 boys had the edge over the Year 11 players.

Good luck to both teams in September for the championships.

Coach: Mr Tyler

On Tuesday, 7 May, and Wednesday, 8 May, the Diocese of Wollongong Rugby League representatives journeyed to Wagga to compete against the combined Western Region teams at the Southern Country Rugby League trials. Demonstrating exceptional skill and sportsmanship, the U15s & Open Wollongong Representative teams made us proud with their commitment and high level of play.

The competition was fierce, with athletes showcasing impressive talent and determination. Despite the intensity, our students displayed remarkable dedication and enthusiasm, which was evident in their performance on the field.

We are thrilled to announce that several of our students were selected for the Southern Country Rugby League teams. In the U15 category, Abdel Sultan, Fletcher Couchman, Brodee Green, Callum Cooney, and Mohammad Chaaban earned their spots through outstanding performances.

In the Opens category, Cooper Morrison, Ruben Mayers, Leonardo Valentinetti, Creighton Meafou, and Letham Manago were chosen to represent the Southern Country Rugby League, showcasing their advanced skills and commitment to the sport.

Additionally, Jeremy Packer and Tom Voase received President Selections, a testament to their exceptional abilities and potential.

These selections highlight the strength and depth of talent within our rugby league students. Congratulations to all the selected players for their hard work and dedication. We wish them best of luck at the upcoming NSWCCC Rugby League selections.

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

The 2024 Basketball season began with the Opens Squad travelling to Sutherland for the opening rounds of the Shire Shield. Competing in four games during the first round, the squad ended the day with an impressive record of three wins and one loss, securing their place in the finals later this term.

The day started with a challenging match against Cronulla High, resulting in a tough loss. However, the team quickly bounced back with victories over Endeavour High, Heathcote High, and Menai High. Their continuous improvement throughout the day has boosted their spirits as they prepare for the next stage of the competition.

Coach: Mr Richardson

On Friday, 17 May, The Diocese of Wollongong hosted the Open Boys Football Selection Trial at Ian McLennan Park, Kembla Grange. This stand-alone trial was organized following the unfortunate washout of the Open Boys Football Championships earlier this year.

Approximately 40 talented students participated in the trial. The level of play was top-notch, reflecting the highly talented students in the Wollongong Diocese. The College had 13 students attend the trial, and are thrilled to announce that the following students have been selected to represent the Diocese at the NSWCCC Football selections:

Alessandro Calmasini, Yoan Ciugureanu, Tzar Harb, Oliver Morgan, Ryan Plumridge

Congratulations gentlemen, and best of luck at the selections!

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

During the April school holidays, some talented ERC students competed in the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships held on the Gold Coast. We are thrilled to share their outstanding achievements:

Darcy Stepanovski (Year 7) displayed incredible endurance, competing in his 12th race of the day and earning a bronze medal in the Under-13 Ironman race.

Milton Stepanovski (Year 9) showcased his exceptional athleticism, securing a bronze medal in the Under-15 2km beach run.

Max Miller (Year 9), as a member of the Under-15 Surf Team representing Warilla Barrack Point SLSC, achieved the ultimate success by winning a gold medal in the relay team event.

Congratulations to Darcy, Milton, and Max for their fantastic performances and well-deserved medals.

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

Please access the Careers Website: which provides the latest information to help students make decisions about their future careers and life beyond school.

• Go to erccareers.com
• Then to important information
• Click on to School Careers newsletter

Mr Cajar
Careers Advisor

School Bus Survey – Wongawilli, Stream Hill, Brooks Reach, Kembla Grange

Families living in the suburbs of Wongawilli, Stream Hill, Brooks Reach, Kembla Grange will be emailed a link to a short survey regarding the current school bus transport arrangements for their son. We would ask that you complete this survey by Friday 31 May. Your feedback will then be collated and reviewed with Premier buses.

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PROCEDURES FOR PARENTS / CARERS

Parent Appointments

As a College we respectfully request that any parent wishing to discuss a matter of concern with a member of staff contacts the relevant staff member via email or via telephone through the College Office and requests an appointment. Staff members will get back to you at their earliest convenience. Parents presenting at the College Office may be asked to make an appointment and return at a mutually convenient time. For specific information about who to contact please refer to your son’s diary on pages 20 and 21.

Collecting your son from school

A reminder to all families that should a circumstance arise where you need to collect your son from school before the end of the school day we require you to come to the College Office. Students will not be permitted to walk to the carpark or the street to be collected. If they leave to attend a pre-arranged appointment we request that this is communicated to the College Office in writing via note or email. If you wish to have someone collect your son that is not currently listed on TASS then you will be required to communicate this clearly in writing, you will also receive a call to verify that you did in fact authorise this arrangement. All students arriving late or departing early are required to sign in and out through the Student Office.

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Change in Student/Family Circumstances/Contact Information/Medical Conditions

If any change has occurred/occurs in your family – separation, divorce, serious illness, the College should be notified as soon as possible. The College seeks to be supportive of families in such circumstances and such events always have a bearing on a child’s education. Likewise, a change of address, email or phone number (work, home or mobile) or emergency contact should be advised immediately.

If your son suffers from a medical condition it is vital that you inform the office of his condition and what treatment is required in an emergency. An emergency management plan must be developed for any students with serious conditions.

Please verify all information via the TASS Parent Lounge.

The Canteen has recently introduced the following Flexischools Program to assist families in ordering their son’s lunch online. Parent are asked to complete online orders before 8:30am.

2024 TERM DATES

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EDMUND RICE COLLEGE CALENDAR 2024

It is with sadness that Mrs Pam O’Hearn passed away peacefully after a short illness.

Pam was the mother to ex-students Michael ‘75, Andrew ‘77, Stephen ‘79, Austin ‘80, and Graham ‘83 attended ERC during the 1970’s – 1980’s. Each of the boys were gifted musicians and active members in the College and Miner’s Bands.

Pam was Secretary of the College Executive of the P & F Association from 1977 – 1983. Pam would then be appointed to the Principal’s Assistant from 1982 – 1999 serving under 4 Principal’s over the next 15 years.

Pam was a dedicated social worker and tireless in using her free time after school and family responsibilities offering further support and being an active member of Life Line.

I would like to share a tribute given to Pam upon her retirement in 1988 by Br Michael Walsh.

Pam had put five sons through Edmund Rice College and as a parent had been very active on the Executive of the P & F long before she was employed in March 1984. Pam was responsible for being Secretary to several Principals during her years at ERC and retired in her fifteenth year. Her association with the College spanning so many years made for a special contribution on her part towards College life.

She handled with wonderful competence the demands of her secretarial role liaising effectively with parents, listening, advising, reassuring and helping whether they were timid or anxious, angry or bewildered. Foolish was the parent who tried to intimidate Pam with rudeness or unreasonableness. For her part, Pam dealt with all of them appropriately and fairly. One of her great gifts was that when an apparent conflict of interest arose, she could always see a situation from the point of view of both staff and parents.

Her knowledge of the College and Wollongong’s culture served very well a succession of Principals. Her energy and generosity with her time characterised her right to the end of her working life.

Brother Walsh stated that he appreciated experiencing Pam’s efficiency, her calmness when things were most hectic, or when he was less calm, her wonderful sense of humour and her love of cricket. This was also noted by her co-workers who all appreciated these qualities.

Pam’s wisdom and shrewdness in assessing personalities and situations were evident too. Pam could usually see through to any hidden agendas. So many teachers, parents and students benefitted from her wisdom and above all her empathy and compassion. But no one could have accused her of being a sentimentalist because she had no time for humbug or falsehood in any form. When it was appropriate Pam always spoke her mind and opinion, a mind sharpened by contests with many a member of staff from Principals down and opinions well grounded in common sense with an eye for practicalities.

Pam was a gift to Edmund Rice College. She had and always will be known for having a great love for the College. She felt very much the hard times that the College endured in the early nineties, but her loyalty, charity and sense of perspective saw her through and no doubt inspired others.

After many years of hard work and devoted service to the College, Pam was able to retire in good health to pursue many interests. Pam was not one to let the grass grow under her feet and certainly not on the Golf Course where she liked to be found from time to time.

May God bless her and her husband Tony in eternal life may she now rest in peace.

Funeral St Therese Little Flower West Wollongong Wednesday 29 May, 10.00 am